GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Aim: A written, measurable, and time sensitive statement of the expected results of an improvement process.

Change Concept: A general idea for changing a process. Change concepts are usually at a high level of abstraction, but evoke multiple ideas for specific processes.

Early Adopter: In the improvement process, the opinion leader within the organization who brings in new ideas from the outside, tries them, and uses positive results to pursuade others in the organization to adopt the successful changes.

Implementation: Taking a change and making it a permanent part of the system. A change may be tested first and then implemented throughout the organization.

Measure: An indicator of change. Key measures should be focused, clarify your team's aim, and be reportable. A measure is used to track the delivery of proven interventions to patients and to monitor progress over time.

Model for Improvement: An approach to process improvement, developed by Associates in Process Improvement, which helps teams accelerate the adoption of proven and effective changes.

PDSA Cycle: A structured trial of a process change. Drawn from the Shewhart cycle, this effort includes:

Plan - a specific planning phase

Do - a time to try the change and observe what happens

Study - an analysis of the results of the trial

Act - devising next steps based on the analysis

Process Change: A specific change in a process in the organization. More focused and detailed than a change concept, a process change describes what specific changes should occur.

Run Chart: A graphic representation of data over time, also known as a "time series graph" or a "line graph." This type of data display is particularly effective for process improvement activities.

Sampling Plan: A specific description of the data to be collected, the interval of data collection, and the subjects from whom the data will be collected. It emphasizes the importance of gathering samples of data and how to obtain "just enough" information.

Team: The group of individuals, usually from multiple disciplines, that drives and participates in the improvement process.

Test: A small-scale trial of a new approach or new process. A test is designed to learn if the change results in improvement and to fine-tune the change to fit the organization and patients. Tests are carried out using one or more PDSA cycles.